Melvoid Benson grew up when domesticity, motherhood, and homemaking were regarded as the only proper and fulfilling roles for a woman. Despite many challenges, including pushback from those who said women were not suited for or capable of earning a college degree, Benson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lane College in 1951.

From there, Benson moved to North Kingstown, Rhode Island, in 1964, where she taught school for the Town of North Kingstown for over thirty years before retiring.

She then went on to serve seven terms in the Rhode Island State Legislature and was the first African-American woman elected to the Rhode Island General Assembly, where she served as a state representative from 1990 until 2004.

Two days after Melvoid Benson's passing on June 11, 2016, President Barack Obama signed legislation sponsored by Congressman James R. Langevin (D-RI) and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) designating the United States Postal Service facility located at 7715 Post Road in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, as the Melvoid J. Benson Post Office Building.

“This dedication is symbolic of Mel’s lasting influence on the town where she taught and served with distinction,” Sen. Whitehouse said. “I’m proud that the Melvoid J. Benson Post Office will stand as a reminder to the next generation of North Kingstown residents of Mel’s trailblazing spirit and her commitment to education and social justice.”